‘What’, ‘why’ and ‘who’ questions can open up conversations with your child by prompting more than just 'yes' or 'no' answers. Using ‘I wonder…’ can also encourage responses if your child finds the direct questions too demanding.
Watch the video below to see how this mum asks her daughter open questions as they get ready to leave the house.
How asking open questions can help your child’s language development
This helps them by:
- Encouraging them to respond with a sentence, rather than just ‘yes’ or ‘no’.
- Opening up the conversation, allowing both of you to continue chatting and taking turns to speak, while following their interests.
Getting ready to go out is a great opportunity to chat with your little one about what you’re doing.
Talk to your child as they put on each item of clothing. Ask them what the items are called, where they go and why it's important to wear them.
Follow your child's lead and focus on one piece of clothing at a time.
